"Changing Currents" will discuss the experiences of two rural communities that were destroyed by Mississippi River flooding and have since rebuilt or are striving to rebuild: Valmeyer, Illinois and Pinhook, Missouri, both of which have interesting histories and rich local cultures. Folklorists Elaine Lawless and Todd Lawrence have done extensive research with the people of Pinhook, and some of their work will be highlighted. The program will feature the mayor of Pinhook, Debra Tarver, the former mayor of Valmeyer, Illinois, Dennis Knobloch, Journalist Mary Delach Leonard of St. Louis Public Radio, and Political Scientist Laura Hatcher of Southeast Missouri State University. It will focus largely on these two questions:

What can be learned from the experiences of Valmeyer and Pinhook about the responsibilities of local, state, and federal agencies in ensuring that rural communities can remain viable when disasters strike?

How have both Pinhook and Valmeyer drawn upon their cultural strengths in order to maintain their vitality in the face of adversity?

"Changing Currents" is presented in partnership with the Lewis and Clark Community College.